Sydney Swans have reignited their slim AFL finals hopes after defeating North Melbourne by 31 points at the SCG. Despite North briefly taking the lead early in the second quarter, they failed to stay competitive. The Swans held firm to secure a 11.10 (76) to 6.10 (46) win in Round 19 of the 2025 AFL season.
From the opening bounce, it was clear that Isaac Heeney was going to be the difference. With an electric performance, the 29-year-old forward put on one of the best individual displays of the season. He ended the match with 34 disposals, 13 clearances, and five goals, establishing himself as the dominant figure on the ground.
Heeney’s Historic AFL Performance Sets New Benchmark
Heeney’s stats told the story. With 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements, and 9 inside 50s, he showed just how versatile and destructive he can be. His blend of pressure, class, and execution overwhelmed North Melbourne.
Remarkably, Heeney became the first player in AFL history to record five goals and more than 11 clearances in a single game. He was benched in the final minutes, but by then, the damage was done.
The absence of North’s key ruckman Tristan Xerri proved costly. Replacement Callum Coleman-Jones injured his calf in the first quarter—his first AFL appearance in 477 days. This left Brodie Grundy free to dominate the ruck, collecting 62 hit-outs, 22 disposals, and 11 clearances in a brutal showing.
Gerard Healy commented, “Xerri’s not playing, he’s been their driver and dynamo all season — but no one’s really stepped up.”
Swans Extend Dominance Over North Melbourne
Sydney has now won 13 of its last 14 matches against North Melbourne, including a 10-game winning streak. North’s last win over the Swans came back in Round 7, 2018. The Roos have also dropped 13 of their last 16 games at the SCG, highlighting their struggles on Sydney turf.
David King said after the match, “Isaac Heeney destroyed this game today … who from the Kangaroos of those elite picks can go to that level?”
While Heeney stole headlines, Errol Gulden had a moment of controversy. After an errant handpass exchange with Nick Blakey, Gulden showed visible dissent, earning a free kick against him. The umpire declared, “Free kick North Melbourne. Free kick for abuse.”
Commentator Leigh Montagna noted, “Fair enough though, that is the rule. It’s just unusual in season 2025 for it to get paid.”
Despite that blemish, the Swans powered on, with Heeney continuing to draw eyes inside 50. His teammates looked to isolate him on every entry.
“They are trying to isolate him almost every time Isaac Heeney when he pushes into that forward line,” said Healy. “He can get you in the air and he can get you on the ground.”
Montagna praised the effort: “Isaac Heeney’s first half — 19 disposals, five inside-50s, six score involvements, a couple of goals, and eight clearances — he’s doing absolutely everything.”
North’s Tom Powell was unable to contain Heeney at the stoppages, lacking the physical presence needed to compete. Montagna suggested a new matchup was needed, but by the time adjustments were considered, Heeney had already inflicted serious damage.
Mark Howard captured the mood perfectly after one spectacular mark: “He can do it all, this man.”
Heeney added two more goals in the final term before sitting out the final minutes to a standing ovation. It wasn’t always pretty from the Swans, but they got the job done—and remain in the finals hunt.
